Systems and methods for disinfection

ABSTRACT

A disinfecting system includes a housing. An ultraviolet light (UV) source is secured to the housing and configured to emit UV light for disinfection of a target. A processor is secured to the housing in communication with the UV light source. The processor is configured to activate the UV light source for a selected amount of time suitable for disinfection of the target.

BACKGROUND

The field of the disclosure generally relates to principles ofdisinfection—which may include one or more of sanitization,sterilization, and cleaning—debridement, treatment of tissue woundsurfaces with agents, optical and acoustic treatments with or withoutpharmaceutical/chemotherapeutic agents. The individual treatment orcombination treatment may enhance existing single module treatment formanagement of cleansing disinfection, wound tissue care, etc.

Generally, improperly disinfected (e.g., sterilized) objects can beharmful to patients and/or users as the objects can potentially transferor spread harmful agents (e.g. bacteria). In some instances, deaths havebeen caused by improperly sterilized objects. For example, an amoeba wasintroduced to patients' brains by the use of nasal rinsing apparatushaving contaminated water. Additionally, improperly sterilized medicalinstruments have been known to transmit drug-resistant bugs and/orbacteria in hospitals possibly due to a complete removal of a bioburden.There is a need for systems and methods of sterilizing objects used onor by patients.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, a disinfecting system includes a housing. An ultravioletlight (UV) source is secured to the housing and configured to emit UVlight for disinfection of a target. A processor is secured to thehousing in communication with the UV light source. The processor isconfigured to activate the UV light source for a selected amount of timesuitable for disinfection of the target.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed can beachieved independently in various embodiments or may be combined in yetother embodiments, further details of which can be seen with referenceto the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a pulse-width modulation (PWM) LEDdriver circuit.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a 555 LED driver circuit for use withthe circuit shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a wireless charging circuit for usewith the circuits shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a wireless receiver circuit for usewith the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasonic drive circuit that can beused with any combination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary nasal cavity fluiddispenser for use with any combination of the circuits shown in FIGS.1-5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a device for at least one ofdisinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing an object for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary device for at least one ofdisinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing a glove for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary robot for at least one ofdisinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing an object for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portable device for at least one ofdisinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing an object for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a dual source light for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 12 is a side cut-away view of an exemplary litter box for use withany combination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 13 is a side cut-away view of a device for at least one ofdisinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing food for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary hair device for use withany combination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of an exemplary pill system for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of an exemplary catheter for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5 and the system shown inFIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary sleeve for use with anycombination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5 and the system shown inFIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary portable system for atleast one of disinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing an object for usewith any combination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an alternative portable system for atleast one of disinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing an object for usewith any combination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary a device for at least oneof disinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing a surgical tool for usewith any of the any combination of the circuits shown in FIGS. 1-5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The systems and methods described herein enable disinfecting of a target(e.g., one or more of an object, a surface, material, and matter) usingultraviolet (UV) light and/or ultrasound. As used herein, disinfectingand disinfection of the target means the ability to kill and/or destroysome or all infectious agent(s) at/on the target. Thus, disinfecting mayinclude sterilization or sanitization, though not necessarily. Theultraviolet is configured to be effective in retarding growth,destroying, and/or killing infectious agents. As used herein,“infectious agent” or “infectious agents” refers to any organism thatcauses disease in a host including, but not limited to, a virus,bacterium, bacteria, prion, fungus, parasite, and disease (e.g.toxoplasmosis).

Ultraviolet light, such as ultraviolet C (UVC; i.e., electromagneticradiation or light having a wavelength from about 100 nm to about 280nm, such as 254 nm), has been known to have a microbicide andbactericidal effects on air, liquids, and surfaces. In some embodiments,a wavelength set to 254 nm is effective at eliminating bacteria (e.g.Naegleria fowleri) in the following lifecycle stages: Cyst, trophozoite,and flagellate. In such embodiments, the ultraviolet (UV) dosageutilized for the inactivation of the N. fowleri in water is 63mW·sec/cm². Other electromagnetic radiation wavelengths may also beeffective for disinfecting, sanitizing and/or sterilizing, including butnot limited to wavelengths from about 270 nm to about 320 nm.

In one embodiment, ultraviolet light is transmitted in and around theembodiments described herein through an ultraviolet LED or LED array. Insome embodiments, the LED is flexible and capable of flush securement onnon-planar surfaces. Additionally, the LED array may be fabricated on aflexible strip. In some embodiments, a non-pulsed output is providedwith the intensity controlled by a current limiting resistor in serieswith the LED. Alternatively, the UV light can be transmitted in anymanner that facilitates sterilization as described herein, including butnot limited to, a fluorescent UVC bulb and a laser. The ultravioletLED(s) described herein can have a wavelength range of 100-400 nm. Insome embodiments, a wavelength at 240-260 nm is preferred (i.e. for DNAabsorption and/or bacteria/virus reduction), or at 365 nm (i.e. forwater sterilization or treatment). Alternatively, the UVC describedherein and used in various embodiments can scan in any suitablewavelength range that facilitates disinfection, sanitation, and/orsterilization as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, a singleor multiple sensors could be used to monitor temperature, power, pH,and/or other parameters needed to determine if the object that issubject to disinfection, sanitation, and/or sterilization is safe touse. The treatment time may be automated, and the movement of the UVlight source and/or the object to be treated may be automated. Forexample, a robot or other device may automated movement of the UV lightsource and/or object to be treated.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a pulse-width modulation (PWM) LEDdriver circuit, generally indicated at reference numeral 100. Circuit100 includes a processor 102 to control the output of the buck boostconverter that drives the UV LED(s) 104 (e.g., UVC LED(s)). A switch isconnected to the processor 102, which enables a user to set an intensitylevel of the UV LED(s). In some embodiments, circuit 100 is capable ofdriving high power UV LED(s). In the exemplary embodiment, the PWM UVLED is powered using a battery. Alternatively, the PWM UV LED can bepowered by any known power source including, but not limited to, a DCpower supply.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a 555 LED driver circuit, generallyindicated at reference numeral 110, for use with the circuit 100 shownin FIG. 1. The circuit 110 includes a 555 timer to drive the UV LED(s)104. The intensity level of the UV LED(s) can be controlled by tuningthe frequency adjusting potentiometer 112. The driver 110 will becapable of driving lower power UV LED(s). In the exemplary embodiment,circuit 110 is powered using a battery. Alternatively, circuit 110 canbe powered by any known power source including, but not limited to, a DCpower supply.

In one embodiment, the battery used to power circuits 100 and 110 couldbe charged using AC\DC wall adapter or wireless charging technology.FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a wireless charging circuit 120 for usewith circuits 100 and 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the exemplaryembodiment, circuit 120 utilizes a transformer, rectifier circuit, andLDO regulators to power a 555 timer oscillator circuit, such as circuit110. The oscillator circuit drives an inductor that will be used totransmit an electromagnetic field to a receiving circuit. The inductorL2 and capacitor C9 values will be chosen to resonate at the samefrequency of the 555 timer.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a wireless receiver circuit 130 for usewith circuits 100, 110, and 120 shown in FIGS. 1-3. In the exemplaryembodiment, circuit 130 includes a battery charger 132 that powered bythe wireless receiver. The wireless receiving circuit also includes aninductor L5 and capacitor C15 which values will be chosen to resonate atthe same frequency as the transmitter circuit. The half-wave rectifierand filter capacitor will be used to power the battery charger 132.Alternatively, the battery charger 132 can be powered using an AC/DCpower source. In one embodiment, the battery charger 132 is used tocharge the battery that powers the LED driver circuit 100.

In addition to the sterilization provided by UV, ultrasound can becombined with the UV to clean and/or sterilize objects. FIG. 5 is aschematic diagram of an ultrasonic drive circuit 140 that can be usedwith any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, and 130 shown in FIGS.1-4. In one aspect, ultrasonic acoustic waves pass through liquids, suchas water, causing cavitation. Cavitation is the formation of small highpressure bubbles. When the bubbles implode or explode the high level ofpressure and heat is exerted onto nearby surfaces. Cavitation can beused to disrupt and destroy infectious agents on, in, and/or around anobject. Additionally, ultrasound can be used to disrupt intercellularcommunication which can prevent growth of and break apart infectiousagents without the use of cavitation.

In some embodiments, a frequency range of the ultrasound is adjusted totarget specific infectious agents. In one embodiment, the ultrasound isadjusted in the frequency range from 20 kHz to 3 MHz. Alternatively, thefrequency range can be any range that facilitates sterilization asdescribed herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the drive signal isselected to have a predetermined output based on the target object. Forexample, the predetermined output of the drive signal can be constant,pulsed, and/or modulated to obtain the desired results. The ultrasonicdevice can be made of many different constructions including, but notlimited to, bolt clamped Langevin or piezoelectric discs. In someembodiments, one or more sensors are used to monitor at least one oftemperature, power, pH, and other parameters needed to determine if theultrasound is or has been effective in sterilizing an object.

In the exemplary embodiment, circuit 140 includes a processor 142 tocontrol the drive signal of an ultrasonic transducer. The push-pulldesign consist of two mosfets being switch to cause a push and pull ofcurrent through the primary side of the transformer. The center tap onthe primary side of the transformer determines amplitude on thesecondary side of the transformer. The inductor on the secondary side ofthe transformer will be used for impedance matching to allow forefficient power consumption. Other drive circuits as known in the artcan be utilized.

It should be noted that processors described herein may include one ormore processing units (e.g., in a multi-core configuration). Further,processors described herein may be implemented using one or moreheterogeneous processor systems in which a main processor is presentwith secondary processors on a single chip. As another illustrativeexample, the processors may be a symmetric multi-processor systemcontaining multiple processors of the same type. Further, the processorsmay be implemented using any suitable programmable circuit including oneor more systems and microcontrollers, microprocessors, reducedinstruction set circuits (RISC), application specific integratedcircuits (ASIC), programmable logic circuits, field programmable gatearrays (FPGA), and any other circuit capable of executing the functionsdescribed herein. Additionally, the processors may perform partialprocessing and receive partial processing by a processor and/orcomputing device communicatively coupled to the processors.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary nasal cavity fluiddispenser 200 for use with any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120,130, and 140 shown in FIGS. 1-5. In one embodiment, dispenser 200 isconfigured to disperse fluid into a nasal cavity for nasal irrigation(e.g. Neti pot). In the exemplary embodiment, dispenser 200 includes amain body 202, fluid reservoir 204, and a fluid entry aperture 206.Connected to the main body 202 is a handle 208, a neck 210, and a fluidexit aperture 212 coupled to the neck 210. In one embodiment, dispenser200 includes a filter 214 that is removably coupled in aperture 206.

Filter 214 is configured to remove infectious agents from the fluidprovided to dispenser 200. Filter 214 can have any media for filteringfluid including but not limited to, ceramic, ceramic with carbon core,glass fiber, a structured matrix, and iodine resin. In the exemplaryembodiment, filter 214 is manufactured with a pore size of 1 micron orsmaller. Alternatively, filter 214 can have any pore size thatfacilitates sterilization as described herein. In some embodiments,filter 214 is fixedly coupled inside of dispenser 214. Filter 214 mayhave a UVC light source incorporated into the filter 214 to ensuredispenser 200 is sanitized.

In the exemplary embodiment, dispenser 200 includes a base 220. Coupledwithin base 220 is a UV light source 222. In some embodiments, anultrasound transducer 224 is coupled within base 220. In someembodiments, light source 222 is an ultraviolet LED or LED array.Alternatively, light source 222 can be any light source that providesUVC waves, including but not limited to, a fluorescent UVC bulb and alaser. A light amplifying device may be adjacent the light source 222 toamplify its output. For example, the light from the light source 222 maybe amplified by a Fresnel lens or other optic. Transducer 224 isconfigured to provide ultrasound to fluid retained in reservoir 204. Inone embodiment, base 220 is sealed from fluid reservoir 204, such thatfluid in reservoir 204 cannot contact light source 222 and/or transducer224. Alternatively, base 220 is open to reservoir 204 to enable fluid inreservoir 204 to contact light source 222 and/or transducer 224.

In one embodiment, light source 222 and/or transducer 224 are poweredand run by circuits (e.g. circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140) coupledin base 220. In such an embodiment, a power source 226, including butnot limited to, a battery, is the source of power. In an alternativeembodiment, dispenser 200 is configured to have power received on adocking station 230. Docking station 230 includes a transmitter 232 forproviding power to power source 226. In one embodiment, power issupplied from transmitter 232 to power source 226 wirelessly throughinduction. Alternatively, power can be supplied from transmitter 232 topower source 226 in any manner that facilitates power transfer.

Utilizing light source 222 and/or transducer enables dispenser 200 tosanitize fluid within the dispenser and/or the inner walls of thedispenser. Treating and/or sanitizing water prior to using dispenser 200will reduce the risk of being infected with infectious agents (e.g. thePAM disease). In one embodiment, the fluid (e.g. water) is treated for aspecified amount of time with the light source 222 before use ofdispenser 200. In some embodiments, the fluid (e.g. water) is treatedfor a specified amount of time with ultrasound emitted from transducer224 before use of dispenser 200. The treatment times of UV and/orultrasound and the frequencies of the ultrasound can be specified totarget a specific infectious agent. In one example, the light source 222and the ultrasound transducer 224 may be operated simultaneously todisinfect the dispenser 200. Bubbles in the fluid caused by theultrasound transducer 224 may assist disinfection by the light source222. In another example, the light source 222 and the ultrasoundtransducer 224 may be used at different times, independent of oneanother. Additionally, the light source 222 could also be used tosanitize the dispenser 200 after each use. In some embodiments, one ormore sensors 240 are positioned in dispenser 200 to monitor at least oneof temperature, power, pH, and other parameters needed to determine ifthe UV and/or ultrasound is or has been effective in sterilizing thedispenser 200 and/or the fluid within the dispenser 200.

In one embodiment, an electrical current is transmitted to fluid inreservoir 204 to disrupt any infectious agents present in the fluid. Insuch and embodiment, positive and negative electrodes are integratedinto reservoir 204 and/or base 220 and an electrical current isconducted through the fluid before use of dispenser 200. Dispenser 200can be configured to supply either or both of AC and DC current to thefluid prior to use.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an object sanitizer 300 for use with anycombination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS. 1-5.In the exemplary embodiment, sanitizer 300 is configured to be locatedin a sterile environment (e.g. medical facility or food processingfacility). Sanitizer 300 includes a housing 302 having one or more lightsources 304 positioned in the housing. In some embodiments, light source304 is an ultraviolet LED or LED array. Alternatively, light source 304can be any light source that provides UVC waves, including but notlimited to, a fluorescent UVC bulb and a laser. In one embodiment, lightsource 304 is configured to provide nutrients (e.g. vitamin D) to foodplaced in contact with the UV light emitted from light source 304.

Housing 302 also includes a viewable shield 306. Shield 306 isconfigured to protect users from UV light transmitted in housing 302. Insome embodiments, shield 306 is a window that is polarized to allow auser to see into sanitizer 300 and not be exposed to UV light.Alternatively, shield may be have an opaqueness that blocks UV lightwhile enabling a user to see objects placed in sanitizer 300. Shield 306can be fabricated from any material capable of blocking UV light andpermitting a user to see though the shield, including but not limited toglass and plastic.

In the exemplary embodiment, sanitizer 300 includes a bath 308 forretaining objects and fluid. In some embodiments, bath 308 includes atransducer 310 configured to provide ultrasound to fluid retained inbath 308. Transducer 310 is configured to provide vibratory energy (i.e.ultrasound) to the fluid in bath 308 to aid in dislodging and/orremoving debris from objects placed in bath 308. For example, in asurgical setting, tissue and/or surgical debris that has attached tosurgical instruments can be removed in a hands free manner. Likewise, ina food preparation setting, organic or inorganic material that hasattached to food products can be removed from the food product by thevibratory energy transmitted through bath 308.

In some embodiments, sanitizer 300 includes a door 312 for inserting andremoving objects subject to sterilization. In one embodiment, door 312is also a shield 306. In some embodiments, a conveyer belt 314 is usedin conjunction with sanitizer 300 to bring objects into and out ofexposure with UV light transmitted by light source 304. Conveyer belt314 can be configured to extend though bath 308, thus allowing objectsplaced on belt 314 to be exposed to ultrasound in a fluid environment.Alternatively, belt 314 can be configured to only provide UV lightexposure to objects placed on belt 314. In some embodiments, one or moresensors 320 are positioned in sanitizer 300 to monitor at least one oftemperature, power, pH, and other parameters needed to determine if theUV and/or ultrasound is or has been effective in sterilizing thesanitizer 300 and/or the fluid within the bath 308.

In one embodiment, sanitizer 300 is configured to sanitize fluid that ischanneled through a tubular structure 320. In such an embodiment,tubular structure 320 can be coupled to a pump 322 configured to channelfluid through structure 320 and sanitizer 300. In one embodiment, thefluid channeled through structure 320 is blood extracted from a patient.This would enable blood to be sanitized and/or cleansed with UV and/orultrasound. Such treatment would disrupt and/or kill infectious agentspresent in blood without killing red blood cells. In an alternativeembodiment, sanitizer 300 can be utilized in conjunction with any hosesystem including, but not limited to, dialysis machines, heart-lungmachines, coffee pots, humidifiers, jewelry cleaners, parts cleaners,foot baths, whirlpools, bath tubs, swimming pools, wax baths, pet foodbowls, RV water tank, water heater, HVAC systems, refrigerators,dishwashers, as well as tanks and hoses in the fermentation of alcohol.As such, an ultrasonic signal could be transmitted through the linesthat beer and fermented beverages are ran through in bars andrestaurants to prevent the build-up biofilm and keep the lines clean byproviding vibratory energy that would prevent blockage and preserve thebeverage (e.g. preserve beverage integrity).

In the exemplary embodiment, fluid is channeled through sanitizer 300 bypump 322 at a time increment that will enable the fluid within structure320 to be exposed to UV and/or ultrasound for a duration long enough tohave a deleterious effect on infectious agents in the fluid. In someembodiments, the rate of speed of the fluid being channeled is selectedbased on the fluid flowing through structure 320. Alternatively, therate of speed of the fluid being channeled is selected based on theinfectious agent that is to be treated and/or eliminated such that thefluid is exposed to the UV and/or ultrasound for the predetermined time.The tubular structure 320 and/or the light source 304 may be movable(e.g., rotatable or oscillatable) to ensure the fluid in the tubularstructure is exposed to the UV light from the light source as it flowsthrough the tubular structure. In the same or another embodiment, thefluid in the tubular structure 320 may swirl around within the tubularstructure. A device for causing swirling of the fluid flow in thetubular structure 320 may be provided.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary glove sanitizing system 400for use with any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140shown in FIGS. 1-5. System 400 includes a glove sanitizer 401 having ahousing 402 with one or more light sources 404 positioned in thehousing. In some embodiments, light source 404 is an ultraviolet LED orLED array. Alternatively, light source 404 can be any light source thatprovides UVC waves, including but not limited to, a fluorescent UVC bulband a laser.

In the exemplary embodiment, housing 402 includes an aperture 406configured to enable a user wearing gloves to insert the gloves intohousing 402 to enable exposure of the gloves to UV emitted by lightsource 404. The illustrated glove sanitizer 401 includes upper and lowerUV light sources 404, whereby the users hands are positionable betweenthe upper and lower light sources. The glove sanitizer 401 may beconfigured to activate the light sources 404 for a specified period oftime (i.e., a timer) and/or communicate instructions to the user. Amicroprocessor may operate the glove sanitizer 401. In some embodiments,a sanitizing spray nozzle 410 is coupled in housing 402 to provide fluiddisbursement to objects placed in glove sanitizer 401. In such anembodiment, nozzle 410 is coupled to a fluid reservoir 412 positioned inhousing 402. Nozzle 410 is configured to provide a sanitizing agent toobjects in glove sanitizer 401. In one embodiment, an alcohol basedsolution is ejected from nozzle 410. Alternatively, any sanitizing agentcan be transmitted from nozzle 410 that facilitates sanitizing asdescribed herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, system 400 includes a disposable glove 420for use with glove sanitizer 401. Glove 420 can be manufactured from anysuitable material including but not limited to, latex, nitrile rubber,vinyl, and neoprene. In some embodiments, glove 420 includes a coatingto lubricate the gloves, making them easier to put on the hands. In theexemplary embodiment, glove 420 is fabricated to have an opaqueness thatblocks UV light from being transmitted to the skin of a wearer. System400 enables a user to sanitize a glove that would normally requiredisposal. For example, a medical professional could utilize 1 set ofgloves 420 for examining different patients with the use of glovesanitizer 401 to sanitize the gloves between patients. Likewise, a userin a food processing facility would be able use 1 set of gloves betweendifferent foods with the use of glove sanitizer 401 to sanitize thegloves between work areas. System 400 provides cost effective way toprevent infectious agent transmission with a decrease in waste. Such asystem would also enable health care professionals to potentially avoidthe requirements of constant use of sterilizing agents on the skin. Theglove sanitizer 401 may include a shield to inhibit a user's eyes frombeing exposed to UV light.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary robot 500 for use with anycombination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS. 1-5.In the exemplary embodiment, robot 500 includes a housing 502 and amovement apparatus 504. In one embodiment, movement apparatus 504 is acontinuous track that enables robot 500 to traverse over differentterrain throughout a room. In an alternative embodiment, movementapparatus 504 includes at least one blade assembly 503 to enable robot500 to fly. Alternatively, movement apparatus 504 can be any apparatusthat enables movement of robot 500 including, but not limited to wheelsand an air/fluid bladder (e.g. hovercraft).

Coupled to housing 502 is a plurality of light sources 504. Lightsources 504 can be positioned in any location on housing including, butnot limited to, a top surface, a bottom surface, and side panels. Insome embodiments, light source 504 is an ultraviolet LED or LED array.Alternatively, light source 504 can be any light source that providesUVC waves, including but not limited to, a fluorescent UVC bulb and alaser. In one embodiment, light source 504 is associated with an imagecapturing device 506. Image capturing device 506 is configured tocapture images, either continuously or intermittently, to monitor whatsurfaces have come in contact with UV emitted by light source 504. Imagecapturing device, can be any image detection device including, but notlimited to, a camera, video camera, machine vision, and/or laser. In oneembodiment, the captured images are compared with images of a room,either received from another computing device (e.g. smartphone, tablet,laptop, or PC) or from a separate capturing device 508 located onhousing 502 to determine what has come in contact with UV and theduration of the contact.

In the exemplary embodiment, robot 500 includes a plurality of sensors510 coupled to housing 502. Sensors 510 can be configured to track andprovide visual information that will be utilized by a processor inhousing 502 to steer robot 500. Additionally, sensors 510 can beconfigured to monitor at least one of temperature, power, pH, and otherparameters needed to determine if the UV is or has been effective insterilizing a room.

In one embodiment, robot 500 includes a suction (vacuum) port, fabricattachment pad, and a spray nozzle coupled to the bottom surface ofhousing 502. The suction port, fabric attachment pad, and spray nozzle,along with a light source 504, enable robot 500 to clean and sanitizefloors. In one embodiment, robot 500 includes an attachment port 514that is configured to receive a handle that would enable a user tomanually move robot 500.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portable sanitizer 600 for use withany combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS.1-5. In the exemplary embodiment, sanitizer 600 includes a circularhousing 602 that enables sanitizer to move over varied terrain.Alternatively, housing 602 can have any shaped structure that enablesmovement, including but not limited to oval. Coupled to sanitizer 600 isa plurality of light sources 604. In some embodiments, light source 604is an ultraviolet LED or LED array. Alternatively, light source 604 canbe any light source that provides UVC waves, including but not limitedto, a fluorescent UVC bulb and a laser. In some embodiments, one or moretracks 606 are coupled around and/or on housing 602. Tracks 606 can beconfigured to move constantly and/or intermittently based on a desiredeffect. Tracks 606 also enable sanitizer 600 to move in variousmovements that provide UV from different angles to provide maximumexposure to objects.

In one embodiment, sanitizer 600 includes sensor(s) 610. Sensor 610 canbe configured to monitor at least one of temperature, power, pH, andother parameters needed to determine if the UV is or has been effectivein sterilizing a room. In one embodiment, sensor 610 is configured toreceive monitor visible light. When visible light is not present (e.g.environment is dark) sensor 610 transmits a signal to a processorpositioned in housing 602 and/or light source 604 that will initiate aUV sequence that will transmit UV light. Sanitizer 600 is effective atpreventing and/or killing infectious agents on food items in arefrigerator, drawer, cabinet, and/or any other dark space whilepreventing UV exposure to users. In some embodiments, sanitizer 600 ismoisture sealed and configured to be placed in a dishwasher and/orclothes washing machine to sanitize objects in the washer. In oneembodiment, a transducer 614 is coupled to housing 602 to emitultrasound.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a dual source light 700 for use withany combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS.1-5. In the exemplary embodiment, light 700 includes a base 702 and abulb or tube 704 coupled to the base 702. Tube 704 can be fabricatedfrom any material that is capable of retaining gas without leaksincluding but not limited to, glass and plastic. Base 702 includes anelectrical contact 706 and a ballast for converting and/or limitingcurrent in light 700. The ballast can be magnetic or electronic. Light700 also includes a first light source 708 positioned in tube 704 andcoupled to the ballast. First light source 708 can be any light sourcethat provides visible light including, but not limited to incandescent,fluorescent, and halogen.

In the exemplary embodiment, light 700 includes a second light source710 configured to provide UVC. In some embodiments, second light source222 is ultraviolet LED or LED array. Alternatively, light source 222 canbe any light source that provides UVC waves, including but not limitedto, a fluorescent UVC bulb and a laser. In one embodiment, second lightsource 222 is coupled to a second light power source 712 positioned inbase 702. Power source 712 is configured to receive and store currentflowing into and/or through contact 706 and/or the ballast including butnot limited to a super-cap and a battery.

In operation, when power is supplied to light 700, first light source708 is powered from the current supplied and the second light powersource 712 is charged. When power to light 700 is stopped, second lightsource 710 is powered by power source 712. For example, if light 700were placed inside a refrigerator, when a door to the refrigeratoropened, first light source 708 would illuminate the inside of therefrigerator and when the door closed, UVC would be provided to theinside of the refrigerator to sterilize food items and/or therefrigerator itself.

It should be noted that light 700 could be connected to a sensor thatwould provide signals for providing and eliminating UVC light. Forexample, light 700 could be configured to be placed above kitchencounters and only emit UVC when no motion is detected by one or moremotion detection sensors. Additionally, second light source 708 can beon a flexible line 720 coupled to light 700 that enables a user toposition and/or direct the UVC to a desired location.

FIG. 12 is a side cut-away view of an exemplary litter box 800 for usewith any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown inFIGS. 1-5. Box 800 includes a base 802, side panels 804, a front lip806, and a back support 808. In some embodiments, a ramp 810 is coupledto lip 806 to provide an animal entry and exit into box 800. Littermedia 812 is placed on base 802 and retained in place by panels 804, lip806, and support 808.

Support 808 includes an overhang 814 that is substantially parallel tobase 802. In the exemplary embodiment, coupled to overhang is a motionsensor 816 configured to detect when an animal is or has been in box800. At least one light source 818 is coupled in box 800 to provide UVCto media 812 and/or excrement left in box 800. In one embodiment, a rakeis coupled to overhang 814.

In operation, when sensor 816 detects an animal has entered and exitedbox 800, a signal is transmitted to light source(s) 818 to transmit UVC,for a predetermined time to sanitize media 812 and/or excrement left inbox 800. In one embodiment, a signal is also transmitted to rake 820 toscoop and/or rake media 812 for disposal purposes.

In some embodiments, box 800 is filled with fluid (e.g. water orsterilized fluid) to clean box after an animal has entered and exitedbox 800. In such an embodiment, fluid is provided to box 800 through aplumbing source 830 and fluid aperture 832. One or more transducers 834are coupled to base 802 to provide vibratory energy (i.e. ultrasound) tofluid filled in box 800. After ultrasound is transmitted to the fluid bytransducers 834 for a predetermined amount of time, the fluid is drainedthrough drain 836 and/or line 840.

The UVC and ultrasound provided to box 800 is configured to treat and/oreliminate Toxoplasma gondii in the excrement, which is linked totoxoplasmosis. For example, the UVC may damage DNA/RNA of the Toxoplasmagondii, and the ultrasound may break up the cell wall membrane and sporewall. Additionally, the vibratory energy provided by the ultrasound fromtransducers 834 can break down the excrement and the Toxoplasma Gondiiin the excrement.

FIG. 13 is a side cut-away view of a food sterilization device 860 foruse with any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shownin FIGS. 1-5. In the exemplary embodiment, device 860 is configured towash and/or air dry food items through rotational energy. Device 860includes an outer bowl 862 configured to block UVC, an inner bowl 864that is configured to be positioned on a pivot point 866 of outer bowl862. Device 860 also includes a lid 868 configured to removably coupleto outer bowl 862 and block UVC. Lid 868 includes a spinner 890 thatrotates inner bowl 864 with respect to out outer bowl 862. In theexemplary embodiment, spinner 890 is a pusher with an integrated spring.Alternatively, spinner 890 can be any device that provides rotation toinner bowl 864 including, but not limited to, a crank.

Coupled to an inner wall 872 of outer bowl 862 and/or underside 874 oflid 868 is a light source 876 configured to provide UVC to objectsplaced in inner bowl 864 and/or outer bowl 862. In one embodiment, lightsource 876 is ultraviolet LED or LED array. Alternatively, light source876 can be any light source that provides UVC waves, including but notlimited to, a fluorescent UVC bulb and a laser. In one embodiment, lightsource 876 is powered by a battery positioned in lid 868. Alternatively,light source 876 can be powered by any power source including but notlimited to a solar panel and mechanical energy created from use ofspinner 870.

In one embodiment, a transducer 880 is coupled to base 802 to providevibratory energy (i.e. ultrasound) to fluid filled in outer bowl 862.The ultrasound provided by transducer 880 would be beneficial in notonly eliminating infectious agents but also removing debris often foundon food (e.g. mushrooms and lettuce).

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary hair device 900 for usewith any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown inFIGS. 1-5. Device 900 includes a hinged housing 902 having a first arm904 and a second arm 906. Coupled to housing 902 is a power source 908configured to provide power from a AC power source (e.g. wall outlet).Alternatively, a battery 910 is positioned in housing 902 and configuredto charge via power source 908. Coupled to first arm 904 and second arm906 are setting elements 912. In one embodiment, elements 912 areconfigured to heat to set hair in a particular position and/or location.Elements 912 can be fabricated from any material that is configured toretain heat including, but not limited to, aluminum, Teflon, ceramic,tourmaline, metal, and titanium. In some embodiments, elements 912 havea mating surface 914 that is substantially flat. Alternatively, matingsurface 914 can have any shape that facilitates setting hair asdescribed herein including, but not limited to, curved (for curls) andwaved (for crimps). In one embodiment, transducers 916 are positionedwithin first and second arms 904 and 906 to provide vibratory energythat heats elements 912 to a desired temperature.

In the exemplary embodiment, a light source 920 is positioned in element912. Light source 920 is configured to provide UVC to hair follicles.The UVC is emitted for a predetermined amount of time to achieve adesired result. For example, UVC treatment times are provided thatenable enough UVC exposure to the hair follicles to at least one of curehair dye placed on hair, change hair gloss, increase hair growth, andchange hair sheen.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of an exemplary pill system 1000 for usewith any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown inFIGS. 1-5. System 1000 includes a pill 1002 and a remote device 1004. Inthe exemplary embodiment, pill 1002 is ingested (i.e. swallowed) by apatient. Alternatively, pill 1002 is configured to be implanted in thebody. Pill 1002 is sealed by a capsule having a power source 1006 thatis coupled to a light source 1008. In one embodiment, light source 1008is an ultraviolet LED, an LED array, or laser. Alternatively, lightsource 1008 can be any light source that provides UVC waves, includingbut not limited to, a fluorescent UVC bulb.

In one embodiment, pill 1002 includes a communication interface 1010communicatively coupled to a processor 1012 and configured to send andreceive signals with remote device 1004. In one embodiment,communication interface 1010 is configured to receive dosage informationfrom remote device 1004. As such, remote device 1004 is configured toprovide signals to pill 1002 and/or processor 1012 that instruct lightsource 1008 to provide UV and for what duration. Accordingly, pill 1002is configured to provide feedback information to remote device 1004 viacommunication interface 1010. The feedback can include any informationrelating to pill 1002 including but not limited to, position informationand applied dosage information. In one embodiment, pill 1002 includes amagnet 1014 that enables pill to be moved, positioned, and/or guidedwith the use of another magnet located outside the body. It should benoted that pill 1002 can be fabricated as a substantially flat stripthat could be configured to be secured inside a vein and/or artery withany securement mechanism including, but not limited to, surgical glueand sutures. Additionally, pill 1002 can be fabricated to be partiallyor completely biodegradable within the body.

In one embodiment, remote device 1004 is a handheld device (e.g.smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC) that is configured to receive,processor, store, and/or transmit information received from pill 1002.Alternatively, remote device 1004 can be a wearable device (e.g. patch)that is configured to receive information from pill 1002 and storeand/or transmit the received information to another remote device (e.g.smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC) for processing. If wearable devicestores the information received, the wearable device can becommunicatively coupled to a remote device for transmission of the data.It should be noted that circuits 100, 110, 120, and/or 130 arepositioned in pill 1002 to work with light source 1008.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of an exemplary catheter 1100 for use withany combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS.1-5 and system 1000 shown in FIG. 15. Catheter 1100 is fabricated from aflexible material and configured to be inserted into veins and/orarteries. Catheter 1100 includes a base 1102 and a light lumen 1104coupled to the base 1102. Base 1102 houses a processor 1106 that iscommunicatively coupled to a communications interface 1108 that isconfigured to send and receive signals with a remote device, such asdevice 1004 shown in FIG. 15.

In the exemplary embodiment, a light source 1112 is positioned in base1102 and configured to provide UVC. Light source 1112 is coupled tolight lumen 1104 to create a light pipe that emits UVC from a lightaperture 1114 at a distal end of light lumen 1104. In one embodiment,catheter 1100 includes an ultrasound lumen 1116 that is configured totransmit ultrasound through a transducer 1118 positioned at a distal endof ultrasound lumen 1116. Additionally, circuits 100, 110, 120, 130,and/or 140 are positioned in housing 1102 to operate components 1112and/or 1118. In some embodiments, a sensor is coupled to catheter 1102to provide positional and/or environmental information (e.g. pH andtemperature). In one embodiment, a balloon is coupled to the distal endof light lumen 1104. The balloon is transparent and configured toinflate and provide UVC an enlarged area as opposed to a focused beam.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary sleeve 1200 for use withany combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS.1-5 and system 1000 shown in FIG. 15. Sleeve 1200 is configured tosubstantially encapsulate a portion of a vein and/or artery 1201. In theexemplary embodiment, sleeve 1200 is formed from a sterile material andincludes a substantially rigid portion 1202 and a substantially flexibleportion 1204. In one embodiment, sleeve is fabricated from a polymericmaterial. Alternatively, sleeve 1200 can be fabricated from anysterilizable material including, but not limited to, a collagen mesh anda scaffold. Flexible portion 1204 includes a flexible mating surface1206 that mates with a rigid mating surface 1208 to form a substantiallycylindrical shape to fit around vein and/or artery 1201. When closed,sleeve 1200 has an inner diameter that can be sized to friction fitaround a particular vein or artery. For example, a sleeve configured tosubstantially encapsulate a portion of a vein in the arm adjacent theskin can have an inner diameter that is smaller than an inner diameterfor a sleeve configured to substantially encapsulate an artery in thechest. In the exemplary embodiment, flexible portion 1204 is configuredto be resilient such that mating surface 1206 is configured to springback or return to mate with surface 1208 when moved. In anotherembodiment, the sleeve 1200 may include nitinol or other shape memorymaterial, such that the sleeve takes on a smaller shape to encapsulatinga portion of a vein or other blood vessel when implanted in the body dueto the body temperature of the subject. In another example, a vacuum maybe used to decrease the size of the sleeve 1200 so that the sleeveencapsulates the portion of a vein or other blood vessel. In oneembodiment, a securement device 1209 is coupled to surfaces 1206 and1208 to ensure closure of sleeve 1200. Securement device can be anycoupling device including, but not limited to, magnets, suction deviceand locking device including nitinol.

In the exemplary embodiment, coupled to an inner surface 1210 of sleeve1200 is a light source 1212 that is configured to provide UVC. In theexemplary embodiment, light source 1212 is an ultraviolet LED, an LEDarray, or laser. Alternatively, light source 1202 can be any lightsource that provides UVC. In some embodiments, a transducer 1214 iscoupled to inner surface 1210 of sleeve 1200 to provide ultrasound tovein and/or artery 1201. In one embodiment, a magnet 1211 is coupled toinner surface 1210 of sleeve 1200. Magnet 1211 can be configured tochange a flow and/or speed of blood moving through vein and/or artery1201 by attracting and/or repelling iron particles in hemoglobin. Insome embodiments, the power and/or attraction of magnet 1211 can bechanged by a magnet outside the body, and/or a remote device.

Coupled to sleeve 1200 is a processor 1216 and power source (e.g.battery) that is communicatively coupled to a communications interface1218 that is configured to send and receive signals with a remotedevice, such as device 1004 shown in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, asensor 1220 is coupled to sleeve 1200 to provide positional and/orenvironmental information (e.g. pH and temperature).

In operation devices 1000, 1100, and 1200, shown in FIGS. 15-17 areconfigured to treat localized infections and/or cancer cells. Theapplication of UVC and/or ultrasound damages DNA and/or RNA of cells. Assuch, replication of cancer cells can be retarded or stopped.Additionally, the powering of light sources 1008, 1112, 1210 and/ortransducers 1118 and 1214 can be determined to power and emit energy inaccordance with a dosimetry plan to ensure that a treatment sitereceives maximum UVC and/or ultrasound exposure while preventingcomplete degradation of surrounding tissue and/or organs.

In one embodiment, communication interfaces of devices 1000, 1100, and1200 are configured to receive dosage information from the remotedevice. As such, the remote device is configured to provide signals todevices 1000, 1100, and 1200 that provide dosage information of UVand/or ultrasound. Accordingly, devices 1000, 1100, and 1200 are alsoconfigured to provide feedback information to the remote device via thecommunication interface. The feedback can include any informationrelating to devices 1000, 1100, and 1200 including but not limited to,position information, applied dosage information, and cellular healthinformation.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary portable sanitizing system1300 for use with any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and140 shown in FIGS. 1-5 and FIG. 19 is a perspective view of analternative portable sanitizing system 1400 for use with any combinationof circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 shown in FIGS. 1-5. Systems 1300and 1400 each include a computing device 1302 and a portable sanitizer1304 and 1402 that is configured to removably couple to device 1302. Inthe exemplary embodiment, computing device 1302 is a handheld computingdevice including, but not limited to, smart watch, smartphone, tablet,laptop, or PC. Computing device 1302 includes a processor and camera(not shown). The system 1300 may further include sensors, such as sensorfor the body, tissue, blood, other fluid, that are in communication withthe computing device 1302.

Sanitizers 1304 and 1402 each include a housing 1306 and 1404 and aninput jack 1308 and 1406 coupled to housing 1306 and 1404. Housing 1404is configured to substantially encase the sides of device 1302. In theexemplary embodiment, input jack 1308 and 1406 is configured to beinserted into device 1302 to transfer information bi-directionallybetween device 1302 and sanitizer 1304 and 1402. In one embodiment, asshown in FIG. 18, the input jack can be a TRS (tip, ring, sleeve) orTRRS connector also known as an audio jack, phone jack, phone plug, andjack plug configured to insert into a line in/out 1310 or microphonesocket of device 1302. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 19, the inputjack can be configured to insert into a power and/or communication portof device 1302.

Coupled in housing 1306 and 1404 is a power source (e.g. battery) thatis coupled to light source 1312 and 1408 configured to emit UVC. Powersource can be configured to be removably coupled to housing enabling auser to exchange or swap power sources (e.g. battery) from the housing.Additionally, the power source can be any power source configured toremovably couple to the housing including, but not limited to, alkaline,lithium, and lithium-ion. Housing 1306 and 1404 can be configured tohave a charging port that enables an external power source to providecurrent to the power source coupled in housing 1306 and 1404 to chargeand/or power sanitizers 1304 and 1402. In one embodiment, light source1312 and 1408 is ultraviolet LED, LED array, and/or laser. The depth ofpenetration of the light source may be controlled. Alternatively, lightsource 1312 and 1408 can be any light source that provides UVC waves. Asshown in FIG. 19, light source 19 can be coupled anywhere to housing1404 including a horizontal surface 1410, vertical surface 1412, and/orback panel surface 1414. Similarly, light source 1312 can be coupled toany surface of housing 1306.

In operation, sanitizers 1304 and 1402 receive power instructions fromdevice 1302 and 1402. In the exemplary embodiment, devices 1302 and 1402are configured to run an application that provides executioninstructions to sanitizers 1304 and 1402. Likewise, the application isconfigured to receive information from sanitizers 1304 and 1402 andsensors associated with device 1302 and 1402 to provide executioninstructions. For example, a user may select to run a sanitizingprotocol for kitchen counters. The application would determine theamount, power, and duration of UVC needed to kill infectious agentsassociated with kitchen counters. The sanitizers 1304 and 1402 can beassociated with a robot or other device for automatically moving thesanitizers during treatment session. It should be noted that infectiousagent data could be pulled from a data source retained locally on device1302 and 1404 or on a remote storage location that is communicativelycoupled to the device.

Once the application has determined the amount, power, and duration ofUVC required for a particular protocol, a session is initiated or helduntil a user interacts with device (e.g. starts the session). During thesession, sensors (e.g. accelerometer, magnetometer, gyroscope, proximitysensor, and camera) in device 1302 and 1402 are utilized to providefeedback as to the effectiveness of the session. The application canalert a user as to whether a surface and/or object has been in contactwith a surface long enough to be sterilized and/or if a rate of speed ofthe sanitizer 1304 and 1402 is too fast or too slow to achieve a desiredresult. The feedback can be in any form provided by device 1302 and 1402including but not limited to, visual and auditory signals.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary surgical tool sterilizer1500 for use with any of the any combination of circuits 100, 110, 120,130, and 140 shown in FIGS. 1-5. Sterilizer 1500 includes a housing 1502with an opening configured to receive a tub 1504 having a ultrasoundtransducer coupled to tub 1504. Housing 1502 includes a lid 1506 with alight source 1508 coupled thereto for emitting UVC. In the exemplaryembodiment, light source 1508 is an ultraviolet LED, an LED array, orlaser. Alternatively, light source 1508 can be any light source thatprovides UVC.

In one embodiment, an inlet 1510 and an outlet 1512 for fluid extendsthrough housing 1502 and into tub 1504. Inlet 1510 and outlet 1512 mayprovide fresh fluid and fluid circulation before, during, and/or after asterilization session. A pump may be connected to the inlet 1510 and/ora vacuum source may be connected to the outlet 1512. One or more valvesmay be connected to one or both of the inlet 1510 and the outlet 1512. Acontroller may control the filling of the tub 1504, and/or thecirculation of the fluid, and/or the removal of the fluid from the tub.Alternatively, fluid may be manually provided to tub 1504 without theuse of inlet 1510 and outlet 1512. In one embodiment, a switch 1514 iscoupled to housing 1502 to initiate the use of the transducers and/orlight source 1508. Alternatively, a remote device (e.g. smartphone,tablet, laptop, and PC) could provide instructions to sterilizer 1500.

In the exemplary embodiment, all components of sterilizer 1500 aresterilizable and seals and/or gaskets 1520 are used enable sterilizer1500 to be autoclaved and placed in the sterile field during surgery. Assuch, electronics such as circuits 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 could bekept outside the sterile field. In addition to cleaning and/orsterilizing surgical instruments, sterilizer 1500 could also be utilizedto clean parts of a body, (e.g. treating or cleaning diabetic wounds)and sterilizing and/or cleaning food in an industrial or residentialsetting.

Any of FIGS. 6-20 can include reflective surfaces that enable a singlelight source to provide UVC to multiple surfaces and/or in differentangles to objects being sterilized. For example, referring to FIG. 13,inner surface 872 of outer bowl 862 may have a reflective surface toprovide UV throughout device 860 with the use of a single light source876. Additionally, any of the light sources shown in FIGS. 6-20 can beconfigured to tilt, swivel, rotate, and/or move in any direction toprovide a larger coverage area of the UV compared to a fixed light orbeam. For example, referring to FIG. 9, light source 504 can beconfigured to move side to side (e.g. back and forth) as robot 500travels over a floor. The treatment session time may vary for location,desired depth of penetration, and/or fluid opacity. Additionally, any ofthe light sources shown in FIGS. 6-20 can include a prism and/or ballooncoupled to the light source to scatter light emanating from the lightsource.

In some embodiments, any of the embodiments in FIGS. 6-20 can include apresentation interface that is coupled to processor. The presentationinterface is configured to present information, such as sterilizationand/or timing information to a user. The presentation interface mayinclude a display adapter (not shown) that may be coupled to a displaydevice, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display(LCD), an organic LED (OLED) display, and/or an “electronic ink”display. In some embodiments, the presentation interface includes one ormore display devices.

In some embodiments, any of the embodiments in FIGS. 6-20 can include auser input interface that is coupled to a processor and receives inputfrom user. The user input interface may include, for example, akeyboard, a pointing device, a mouse, a stylus, a touch sensitive panel(e.g., a touch pad or a touch screen), a gyroscope, an accelerometer, aposition detector, and/or an audio user input interface. A singlecomponent, such as a touch screen, may function as both a display deviceof the presentation interface and the user input interface. It should benoted that a UVC light source could provide UVC to the input interfaceto sterilize a surface used for input from a user.

It should be noted that any of the embodiments in FIGS. 6-20 can includea communication interface coupled to processor. The communicationinterface communicates with a remote device (e.g. smartphone, tablet,laptop, or PC) to provide sterilization information. To communicate withthe remote device, communication interface may include, for example, awired network adapter, a wireless network adapter, and/or a mobiletelecommunications adapter (e.g. Bluetooth or cellular link).

All embodiments could be configured such that the optimal treatment timewould be controlled via hardware or software so that the energy sourcewould be disabled at the end of treatment. Treatment time can beselected and/or monitored via a remote device, the user input interface,or the presentation interface. In some embodiments, treatment times areselected based on the object being sterilized. Alternatively, treatmenttimes can be selected based on the infectious agent that is intended toeliminate. In some embodiments, UVC is selected and transmitted indosages provided in the following table to kill infectious agents.Alternatively, any dosage can be used that facilitates slowing growthand/or eliminating infectious agents. Moreover, the treatment mayadditionally include one or more of ultrasound transducer for producingvibratory energy, and laser for producing other light energy.

UV UV UV Output Output Output Dosage 1 W/cm² 5 W/cm² 10 W/cm²Microorganism mWs/cm² (Seconds) (Seconds) (Seconds) PencilliumRoqueforti 28 28 6 3 Oospora Lactis 11 0 2 4 Brewer's Yeast 7 18 4 2Saccharomyces 13 1 4 7 Cerevislae Strep Lactis 9 12 2 1 Staph. Aureus 71 3 6 Staph. Albus 6 11 2 1 Sarcina Lulea 26 2 12 25 Escerichia Coli 7 31 0 Bacillus Subtills 11 4 19 39 Bacterlophage 7 2 0 0 (E. Coli)Influenza 3 2 8 17 Algae 22 13 3 1 Proteus Vulgaris 8 1 3 6 N. fowleritrophozoite 13 22 4 2 N. fowleri cyst 63 3 15 29 Cyptosporidium 6 2 0 0Giardia 5 2 12 24 Adenovirus 50 21 4 2 Hepatitis A 11 1 3 5 Acanthamoeba71 133 27 13 Influenza A 4 0 0 0 Vaccinia 3 100 20 10 Coxsakievirus 4 00 0 Staphylococcus A 2 50 10 5 Tuberculosis 2 0 0 0 Legionella 2 50 10 5

Generally, UVC 260-340 nm can disrupt both DNA and RNA. This requires aspecific direct line of site as well as a specific type. It has a depthof penetration. Treatment modalities would require this direct line ofsight, specific time interval, depth of penetration, and specificexposure. This could be done through direct light, reflective light,specific movement or compression of the material so it becomes closer tothe light source.

In addition, acoustic therapy/ultrasound can providevibratory/debridement type treatment. This treatment in combination withUVC or in isolation may allow debridement material where similar modulescan be removed or separated in existing ultrasonic cleaner or can beutilized in combination with chemical agents or pharmaceutical agents.Ultrasound may also have the potential to affect permeability of cellwalls, membrane, i.e. bacterial cell walls, or blood brain barriers forexample in dura which may enhance penetration of existing pharmaceuticalor chemotherapy agents or chemical agents to enhance the ability tosterilize or clean tissue. Also the vibratory component may allow incombination with UVC less time or more direct light exposure.

UVC can be applied to traditional light, LED with battery operated, orlaser to increase the depth of penetration. UVC can be battery poweredor externally powered through electromagnetic waves to allow implantabledevice to be turned on or off. Ultraviolet light can have deleteriouseffects to other tissue as it can affect DNA and RNA. Pharmaceutical orother materials and/or chemicals, such as H₂O₂, may be added to thesurface being treated.

The light optical or acoustic also has a depth of penetration, intensityof the light and duration. It could be integrated via computer andsoftware programs to be able to turn on and off or be mobile. Inaddition, UVC and/or ultrasonic can be applied via robotic mechanism sothey can be selectively moved whether in the body, in a room or specificspace with a timer and location so one can provide timing/direct lightof sight (reflective sight) or movement closer or farther as needed toenhance sterilization for topical effect. UVC could be applied viarobotic control such as robotic floor cleaner or surface cleaner or viaremote control drone type of device. It could also have motion sensorsthat could allow when movement is detected to be turned on or off so itis not damaging any living tissue in animals, people, etc.

This single or composite treatment may have use of pharmaceuticals (i.e.antibiotics or bacteriocidal) or can enhance the efficacy of the effectof pharmaceutical by applying UVC, ultrasound treatment, compositetreatment, acoustic treatment, and/or optical treatment to enhance theefficacy of target agent for pharmaceutical. For example, ultrasound mayopen the cell wall membranes or bacterial wall membranes previouslypersistent antibiotics now can become toxic to the bacteria via theapplication of UVC or acoustic/ultrasound phenomenon. Vibratory oroptical treatments may open the cell wall membranes to allowpharmaceutical/chemical agents to penetrate where previously thebacteria or cells were resistance to this and allow better depth ofpenetration. Resistant pharmaceutical agents may now become toxic to thebacteria, viruses, parasites, etc. Individuals could wear shields toeyes such as specific sunglasses to tune out UV or it could be motioncensored or detect heat/movement to turn on or off either via remotecontrol or via computer control. This could be linked to a controlsystem that could also allow local pharmaceutical/chemotherapeuticagents whether inside the body or on a specific surface. We could alsotime so that chemical agents and/or UVC could be administeredsimultaneously i.e. spraying 60% alcohol and/or H₂O₂ as well as UVC atthe same time so it would coat a body surface to sterilize it. Thiscould be used for example for gloves which are placed on individual'shands. The gloves could have an optical shield in them so the UVC wouldnot penetrate through the gloves. The individual would wear gloves andfor example work on a patient rather than changing gloves and going tothe next patient. They would go under a shield where UVC would beapplied and then spray 60% alcohol or greater preparation that wouldfurther sterilize the gloves. These would also be dried and then onecould go on to the next patient. This would prevent damage to the skinas the gloves would be on and the gloves would have an opaque surfacefor UVC so that UVC would not penetrate through the skin with additionof alcohol or chemical agent to further sterilize from above and belowso circumferential treatment of gloves so one would not have to changegloves constantly. The gloves intrinsically would have an agent thatwould prevent penetration of UVC into the skin or tissue. As UVC isapplied, it would either be shielded or be opaque so one would simplyscan their hands for a known period of time underneath this for lightand/or chemical agent to be sprayed on. Either the movement alone wouldallow drying or there could be a small burst of air with fan, etc. thatwould dry this. The combination of two agents would then allow thegloves to be sterilized so that one would not have to change the glovesand can keep the gloves on when going from patient-to-patient ortreatment-to-treatment with preparation, etc.

If one has solid debris, one could place it in a vibratory ultrasonicbath. The ultrasonic bath could have chemical agents in it,pharmaceutical agents, etc. or could simply vibrate the material. Onecould then pass under UVC so composite treatments would not only debrideand move material but then also sterilize UVC. It also affects not justbacteria but would affect viruses, parasites, or any material that isRNA/DNA. There would need to be a specific type typically in range ofsecond and then with or without chemical or pharmaceutical spray andthen we would be able to utilize.

This could also be applied for example in the eye. Currently, Toxoplasmagondii is a toxic infection in the eye and can permanently damageretinal cells. Antibiotics have trouble going to the blood brain barrierand there is no treatment as these agents can hide within theparasites/toxoplasmosis. With UVC/laser, one could go through the eyeand treat the parasites for a period of a second or two. It would focuson specific lesions that may have active parasites and selectively killthese. Otherwise, it is extremely difficult to assess. Otherwise, theseare permanent parasites. This could also be used for target laser andother type of parasites. It would not allow visualization butendoscopically for example light source could be applied to the liver,cranial tissue, brain tissue, liver tissue, etc. where parasites/viruseslive permanently. This could be effective for herpes type viruses andneurologic tissue and specifically target the parasitic DNA. Specifictimers and energy frequencies could be utilized to avoid damaging bodytissue while specifically focusing on RNA or DNA of the parasitictissue, viral tissue, or bacteria. Again, this could be used with knownpharmaceutical treatment or could be used in isolation. The vibratory oracoustic components could also be applied to provide further accessespecially if there is fluid or gelatin media could be applied. Thiscould be staged or simultaneous.

If one is adopting the pill or agent which could be implanted orswallowed to effect local tissue, the acoustic/optical energy UVC couldbe turned on or off as needed. There could also be remote control so thepill could be sped up or slowed down for example to adjust the systemrather than allowing normal parasitosis to push the pill through thedigestive system. This could be slowed by external wavelengths orradiofrequency so they can move either with parasitosis faster or slowerso it could target a specific location. There could also be timer forturning the acoustic/optical energy UVC on and/or off.

This could be implanted in the peritoneum. For example, it could beguided in the peritoneum either robotically or magnetically to aspecific location for a specific period of time. This would allowoptical/acoustic energy. This could also time release a pharmaceuticalagent as well so this could be timed and moved to another location. Thiscould be done under endoscopic guidance during a surgical procedure orthis could be implanted surgically and then applied at specificintervals. Later, this device could be tracked and then removed eitherby MRI, x-ray, ultrasound, or other diagnostic. This could be implantedlaparoscopically, endoscopically, arthroscopically into the joint. Itcould be used, for example, arthroscopically into a joint if one hascalcium (chondrocalcinosis crystals) that coat the joint one could usethis to move through the joint and selectively remove the calciumcrystals from the articular cartilage. This could be selectively removedwith vibratory frequencies over a period of time so it would not damagethe articular cartilage cells but acoustically, optically, chemically,or with pharmaceutical agents could selectively release the calciumcrystals so they can move to the articular cartilage. One could havearticular cartilage previously damaged via coating of chondrocalcinosiscrystals. This would selectively vibrate and remove the crystals. Thereare different modules or elasticity of calcium which would selectivelybe removed and then potentially be flushed out again through a surgicalprocedure or could be left inside the joint. As one moves, it couldselectively go through different parts of the joint and selectively moveeither from cartilage, synovial tissue, etc. This could target otherknown coating agents i.e. biofilm. Biofilm has different module soelasticity and biofilm can separate from tissue such as a jointreplacement. Acoustic energy with or without UVC could be applied.Again, this could be implanted, removed, placed during endoscopic orarthroscopic procedure. It could then be selectively turned on and offto selectively remove the biofilm, chondrocalcinosis, or other materialcoating from metallic implant, polymeric implant, or biologic tissuesince they are different modules and different material. They wouldselectively separate. This could be flushed out with chemotherapy orpharmaceutical agents. This could also be used to separate tumor whichis a rapidly growing cell that is typically stiffer, harder, and firmerthan local tissue. One could use the UVC, ultrasound, and/orchemotherapeutic agents to selectively kill the stiffer tissue i.e.rapidly growing neoplasm/cancerous tissue. Since it is rapidly growing,DNA is more affected by UVC and RNA affected by UVC ultrasound,chemotherapeutic agents where this could be targeted and turned on/offselectively as diagnostic portion of ultrasound will measure the densityof the tissue. The acoustic portion of ultrasound will separate the twoand then either ultrasound UVC and/or chemotherapeutic agent appliedlocally to kill neoplastic tissue. This could then selectively be turnedon/off depending on the diagnostic portion of the ultrasound which infrequency determines there is a slime i.e. biofilm, chondrocalcinosis,crystallin type tissue, or denser tissue i.e. rapidly growing tumortissue that has different acoustic density or diagnostic density via MMor other diagnostic test. This could be selectively turned on and offwith implantable or surgically operated device. This could berobotically controlled externally. Other treatments can also be applied,including laser (optical), electrical (RF), mechanical (pressure,torque), ESW, chemical (ETOH, H₂O₂), and pharmaceutical (pH/acid based).

Examples of this are implied in other patents i.e. Bonutti Robotics,Bonutti MIS patents which we reference by incorporation.

This also could be applied locally to tissue or locally to surfaces viawireless or mobile phone—Smartphone technology. UVC could be built on orapplication for your mobile phone where a selective wavelength could beused via cellphone, mobile device, Ipad, etc. to treat a specificsurface. There would be a timer, location, depth. It would measure thedistance from a specific surface. It would turn this on or off. It wouldbe shielded so it would not develop direct eye contact. It couldsterilize, cleanse, treat surface via UVC and mobile phone. Mobileapplication could also be used as a treatment device to turn on/offimplantable device within the human body for sterilization treatment,chemotherapy, treatment of biofilm, etc. It could potentially be used topower the device. Chemotherapy agents or pharmaceutical agents could beapplied by spraying, direct pressure, or solution to specific tissue aswell.

The embodiments described herein enable provide a cost effective mannerfor sterilizing objects. As compared to at least some knownsterilization systems, the systems and methods described herein enable auser to sanitize, disinfect, and/or clean surfaces and/or objectswithout the use of chemical agents. In applications where the water willbe consumed, the UV treatment would also be remove chlorine aftertastein the water providing safe drinking water that is free of infectiousagents.

The embodiments described herein may utilize executable instructionsembodied in a non-transitory computer readable medium, including,without limitation, a storage device or a memory area of a computingdevice. Such instructions, when executed by one or more processors,cause the processor(s) to perform at least a portion of the methodsdescribed herein. As used herein, a “storage device” is a tangiblearticle, such as a hard drive, a solid state memory device, and/or anoptical disk that is operable to store data.

Although specific features of various embodiments of the invention maybe shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenienceonly. In accordance with the principles of the invention, any feature ofa drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with anyfeature of any other drawing.

This written description uses examples to disclose various embodiments,which include the best mode, to enable any person skilled in the art topractice those embodiments, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope isdefined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur tothose skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be withinthe scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do notdiffer from the literal language of the claims, or if they includeequivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from theliteral languages of the claims

What is claimed is:
 1. A disinfecting system comprising: a sanitizerincluding a housing, and an ultraviolet light (UV) source secured to thehousing and configured to emit UV light for disinfection of a target;and a smartphone including a processor, wherein the sanitizer isremovably and physically coupled to the smartphone, and wherein theprocessor is in communication with the sanitizer and configured toactivate the UV light source for a selected amount of time suitable fordisinfection of the target.
 2. The disinfecting system set forth inclaim 1, wherein the UV light source is configured to emit UV lighthaving a wavelength from about 100 nm to about 400 nm.
 3. Thedisinfecting system set forth in claim 2, wherein the UV light source isconfigure to emit UV light having a wavelength from about 240 nm toabout 260 nm.
 4. The disinfecting system set forth in claim 2, incombination with an ultrasound transducer configured to emit ultrasonicenergy for disinfecting the target.
 5. The disinfecting system set forthin claim 2, wherein the UV light source comprises an ultraviolet LED. 6.The disinfecting system set forth in claim 2, wherein the UV lightsource comprises a laser.
 7. The disinfecting system set forth in claim1, wherein the sanitizer further includes a jack inserted into a port ofthe smartphone.
 8. The disinfecting system set forth in claim 7, whereinthe jack is inserted into a power port of the smartphone.
 9. A sanitizerfor disinfecting, the sanitizer comprising: a sanitizer including ahousing, and an ultraviolet light (UV) source secured to the housing andconfigured to emit UV light for disinfection of a target, wherein thesanitizer is configured to be removably and physically coupled to asmartphone, wherein the sanitizer is configured to be in communicationwith the smartphone and receive instructions from the smartphone toactivate the UV light source for a selected amount of time suitable fordisinfection of the target.
 10. The sanitizer for disinfecting set forthin claim 9, wherein the sanitizer further includes a jack configured tobe inserted into a port of the smartphone.
 11. The sanitizer fordisinfecting set forth in claim 10, wherein the jack is configured to beinserted into a power port of the smartphone.
 12. The disinfectingsystem set forth in claim 9, wherein the UV light source is configuredto emit UV light having a wavelength from about 100 nm to about 400 nm.13. The sanitizer for disinfecting set forth in claim 12, wherein the UVlight source is configure to emit UV light having a wavelength fromabout 240 nm to about 260 nm.
 14. The sanitizer for disinfecting setforth in claim 12, in combination with an ultrasound transducerconfigured to emit ultrasonic energy for disinfecting the target. 15.The sanitizer for disinfecting set forth in claim 12, wherein the UVlight source comprises an ultraviolet LED.
 16. The sanitizer fordisinfecting set forth in claim 12, wherein the UV light sourcecomprises a laser.